There’s really only one reason that a man opts for a vasectomy, and that’s to not have children. If you and your partner have opted not to have children or already have kids and don’t wish to add to your family, then it may be time to consider a vasectomy. Here are some decision factors to know if it’s time for you.
Understanding How it Works
Before deciding, it’s important to understand how vasectomies work; they don’t eliminate sperm, they simply prevent the sperm from reaching the semen that is ejaculated from the penis. Following a vasectomy, the testes will continue to manufacture sperm, but instead of being ejaculated, they are absorbed into the body.
Understanding the Procedure
Vasectomies are an out-patient procedure that requires only local anesthetic. As a procedure goes, vasectomies are fairly simple. The urologist disconnects the tubes that deposit sperm from the testes. Once the vas deferens are disconnected, sperm can no longer enter the seminal fluid. The surgery does not involve the testes, which is one of the fears men may face. The testes are not removed and they still produce sperm.
Better for the Partner
If you are concerned for your partner’s well being, know that vasectomies puts no burden on the female partner. Aside from the primary reason of not getting pregnant, men may choose to have vasectomies to prevent their partner from having to take traditional birth control pills, which often have long-term side effects and can be ineffective if not taken per instruction. Vasectomies are more effective than IUDs and foams, are less invasive for the woman than a tubal ligation.
Virility
Even as man’s sperm becomes less viable with age, it’s not impossible for him to father children. A vasectomy is a convenient way to maintain a satisfying sex life without the concern of fathering children late in life. That’s because a vasectomy does not affect a man’s testosterone level. A man who undergoes a vasectomy will have the same abilities as he did prior to the surgery, except that he can no longer produce children.
Spontaneity
When it comes to sexual performance, timing can be everything. With a vasectomy, there is no need for prophylactics, which can take time and ruin the mood. (Remember, though, while vasectomies are a contraceptive tool, they will not protect you or your partner from sexually transmitted diseases.)
Permanence
Once you have been cleared by your urologist that it is safe to have sex without running the risk of pregnancy, there is no further need for protection. That said, it is important that a discussion take place between you and your partner before committing to the procedure. It’s imperative to be on the same page. Ask these questions: will this relationship stand the test of time? Might you plan on having children with your partner later on, and if not, what happens if the relationship ends through divorce, separation or death? And don’t predicate your decision on a reversal procedure, as the success rates can vary between 40 and 90 percent.
When you’re ready, call Ironwood Urology
So is it time for a vasectomy? This is a question only you (and your partner) can answer. If after discussion you still have questions or want to know more, then it’s time to call Dr. Desidrio Avila of Ironwood Urology. Dr. Avila is Phoenix’s expert in the no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy procedure that has allowed thousands of men to perform, worry free. It it’s time, call Ironwood Urology today at (480) 961-2323, or request an appointment online.
